Researchers found that common herbs and spices¹ from the grocery store had potent antioxidant activity which they showed helped protect against the damage caused by elevated blood sugar. Phenols are potent antioxidants in many herbs and spices in varying amounts. The higher the amount of phenol concentration the greater the protection against blood sugar associated damage.

Spices included cloves and ground Jamaican allspice. The top herbs tested included sage, marjoram, tarragon, and rosemary. Adding spices and herbs to your food is a great way to boost the antioxidant value of your meals as well as adding flavor that can help break the “addiction” to the tastes of salt, fat, and sweets.  It's nice to know that ordinary spices and herbs from the grocery store or your garden can help out.